Kent operator Go-Coach has chosen the Bandvulc BDE1 Citymaster tyres and Uniroyal casings for its 55-strong fleet.
The Bandvulc product is fitted to drive axles while Uniroyal is on steer axles. Both brands are part of the Continental Tyres operation in the UK.
All have Armorband, which is a sidewall strengthening system that resists curbing damage. A coloured internal strip provides operators with an early warning should the barrier be compromised.
Go-Coach has found that economy tyres do not work in its application. MD Austin Blackman says that while he anticipated a higher spend in year one of the new deal as older tyres ‘wash out’ of the fleet, he is confident that year two will deliver a financial benefit.
“Although it’s still very early stages for the new approach, I am already seeing massively reduced sidewall damage reports. That is significant.”
Casing management is undertaken by local dealer Watling Tyres. That has mitigated concerns about poor service when several suppliers were used.
In time, responsibility for routine inspections will be handed over to the dealer, which will also deliver management reports to Go-Coach.
www.bandvulc.co.uk
